Golden State Warriors: 3 Explosive matchups to watch versus Memphis

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MAY 10: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors reacts after he shot a three-point basket over Royce O'Neale #23 of the Utah Jazz to give the Warriors a 117-116 lead in the final minute of their game at Chase Center on May 10, 2021 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MAY 10: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors reacts after he shot a three-point basket over Royce O'Neale #23 of the Utah Jazz to give the Warriors a 117-116 lead in the final minute of their game at Chase Center on May 10, 2021 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /
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Golden State Warriors (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)
Golden State Warriors (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images) /

Golden State Warriors: Andrew Wiggins versus Dillon Brooks

The two-man battle of Andrew Wiggins and Dillon Brooks will be a test to see who can out-hustle the other. Wiggins and Brooks have been the consistent driving forces behind their team’s success and their respective squads rely on them to inject a shot of energy into each game.

Wiggins ranks second in the NBA for total 3-pointers contested and leads all non-centers in overall contests this season. Meanwhile, Brooks is second on the Grizzlies in 3-pointers contested, first in loose-balls recovered and first in deflections per game.

In addition to being arguably the best perimeter defends on their team, Brooks and Wiggins are having efficient scoring seasons. Wiggins’ per game numbers might be down, but his shooting splits have never been better. As for Brooks, he’s averaging a career-high 17.2 points.

There is no question that Wiggins and Brooks are going to butt heads at some point in this game. While Brooks is the hungrier, young prospect looking to earn respect in the league, Wiggins is a silent assassin who has quietly redeemed himself in the eyes of the NBA this year. Both players have a chance to solidify their strong seasons by pushing their team’s to a win here.